Absorption and scattering of electromagnetic radiation by a large absorbing sphere with highly absorbing spherical inclusions

An approximate formula based on geometrical optics approximation has been examined for the scattering of light by a sphere with highly absorbing inclusions in it. The validity of an equivalent refractive index formulation has also been examined. Numerical comparisons demonstrate these to be useful in predicting the absorption efficiency, asymmetry parameter and albedo of the sphere. The investigation considers frequencies for which the host medium is absorbing. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.